The aim of this study is to investigate cancer stem cells and their markers in the prostate cancer cell line Du145. Different populations of cells were isolated from Du145. The clones formed by CD44+ integrinalpha(2)beta(1)+CD133+ cells are remarkably different morphologically and quantitatively from those formed by integrinalpha(2)beta(1)(-/low)CD133(-) cells. CD133(+) cells have the capacity for self renewal, extensive differentiation potential, and high proliferative and tumorigenic potential. CD34+ and CD117+ cells have no stem cell properties. Expression levels of c-myc and beta-catenin were elevated and bax was down regulated in CD44+ integrinalpha(2)beta(1)+CD133+ cells. In summary, CD44, integrinalpha(2)beta(1) and CD133 could be the cancer stem cell makers for the Du145 cell line. CD133+ cells differed significantly from CD44+ integrinalpha(2)beta(1)(-/low)CD133- cells and the total population in clone generation, genes expression, differentiation, proliferative and tumorigenic potential.